There was a time when emperors ruled dynasties, heroes became legends, and the world was full of magic and miracles. What if… we could take you back?
This January at Lincoln Center, Shen Yun brings this lost world to life with unrivaled mastery. This one-of-a-kind performance revives stories and legends from five millennia of Chinese culture. With the richly expressive art of classical Chinese dance, groundbreaking musical compositions, and cutting-edge, interactive stage effects, Shen Yun is leaving millions around the world in awe.
An Unforgettable Adventure
In ancient times, China was known as the Land of the Divine. Everyone, from the emperors to the common people, believed that their culture was a divine gift. They lived in harmony with the universe and saw a connection among all things. This culture carried on for thousands of years—until it was lost.
We now invite you to revisit it. To make the journey possible, Shen Yun
had to push the boundaries of performing arts. This production combines ancient dance with technological innovations, and historically authentic costumes with breathtaking animated backdrops. Filled with an enchanting orchestral sound and the beautifully diverse worlds of ethnic and folk traditions, it is a stunning visual and emotional experience you cannot find anywhere else.
Mischief, Monks, and Miracles.
Everyone likes a good story. And Chinese culture has 5,000 years of them. Folk tales, legends, and timeless classics make up this magical world of immortals and heroes. Shen Yun does its storytelling through classical Chinese dance—with its distinct elegance, vividness, and athleticism, it is the perfect medium for bringing these stories to life. And the dancers’ seamless interaction with the dynamic backdrops instantly transports you to another world.
Soothing and Captivating
What do 5,000 years of civilization sound like? Shen Yun’s orchestra has found the answer. Its unique compositional approach blends the singular beauty and expressiveness of Chinese instruments with the grandeur of a Western orchestra. The result is a gorgeous and vivid sound—perfect for bringing to life the soul of an ancient civilization.
Rediscovered Treasure—That Beijing Does Not Want You to See
You cannot see the authentic Chinese culture that Shen Yun presents anywhere else. Not in another show. Not even in China. The current ruling Chinese Communist Party will not allow it.
Why? Because traditional Chinese culture is based on the idea of harmony between Heaven, Earth, and man, whereas the Communist Party advocates “struggle against Heaven, struggle against Earth, and struggle against man,” to quote Mao. The Party sees this culture as a threat to its power and, for decades, has tried to destroy it. It nearly succeeded.
But 10 years ago, a group of elite Chinese artists in New York decided to change that. They created Shen Yun and have brought this traditional culture back from the brink of extinction. Shen Yun cannot perform in China today, but it is now celebrating this heritage around the world. In fact, people fly from China especially to see Shen Yun.
